Qatar Airways signs USD10m partnership with the Asian Games Doha 2006

Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Mr. Akbar Al Baker and Director General of DAGOC Mr. Abdulla Al Qahtani signed the agreement in Doha today. Local and international media representatives attended the historic ceremony at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel.

The alliance with Qatar Airways, the national airline of Qatar, will enable DAGOC to deliver the highest possible standard of airline service to athletes, officials, spectators and media representatives participating in the 15th Asian Games.

Doha 2006 will welcome thousands of athletes from 45 countries across Asia and tens of thousands of spectators from around the world.

"The Games is the major focal point for Qatar over the next 18 months and it will bring tremendous benefits to our country. The provision of a world-class airline in Qatar Airways flying participants and supporting the event will be a key aspect of the success of the Games," said Mr. Al-Qahtani.

"The support of Qatar Airways as the official airline at a time when our progress is already exceeding all expectations and our momentum is taking off at full speed, is greatly welcomed. Qatar Airways is among the most experienced airlines in the world and we are confident that they will deliver the best ever airline service for the 15th Asian Games Doha 2006".

Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said he was delighted, on behalf of the airline, to be supporting the biggest sporting event ever staged in the history of Qatar.

"As official airline of the 15th Asian Games, we look forward to working with the Doha Asian Games Organising Committee on making next year's event as the best-ever in the history of the Games," he said.

"Between now and the Games, we will be aggressively promoting the event, injecting the dedication and enthusiasm we are renowned for, to make the event one to remember.

"Qatar Airways will be delivering its award-winning Five Star service to visitors to the Games, whether they are participating or are spectators. Qatar Airways' trademark is personal attention and service quality, epitomising the values and hospitality of our Qatari tradition.

"Airlines play a significant role in the success of any international sporting event. Today's agreement is a major step towards fulfilling the organising committee's needs of airline support before, during and after the Games."

Qatar Airways, the national carrier of the State of Qatar, is one of the fastest growing airlines in the world with a strong reputation for service excellence and the high standards.

Since its relaunch in 1997, Qatar Airways has developed into an award-winning airline flying to 60 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, the Indian subcontinent and the Far East. The airline plans to serve 70 destinations by the end of 2005.

Qatar Airways is preparing to move into a new home, with the construction of the New Doha International Airport underway. The US$5.5bn state-of-the-art facility, due to open in phases beginning in 2009, is aimed at developing Qatar as the gateway to the world.

"Today's signing ceremony is the second in a series of partnership agreements DAGOC intends to conclude with various local and international giant services and goods providers," said Mr. Al-Qahtani.

"It is refreshing to see the high levels of support from local companies for the Games. Doha 2006 is a national and international sporting event, and the backing we are receiving locally indicates the community is receptive to welcoming the Games to our shores".